What Debts Can You Include in a Debt Relief Program?

Smart Loan Relief editorial team · Updated November 5, 2026 · Educational only, not legal, tax or financial advice.

You can include many types of unsecured debt in a relief program, such as credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. However, federal student loans are not eligible, and secured debts like mortgages and car loans work differently and need a personal review.

Understanding Eligible and Ineligible Debts

When you feel overwhelmed by monthly bills, it helps to know which accounts you can actually address through a debt relief program. Not all financial obligations are handled the same way by creditors. Knowing the differences can save you time and help you make a clear plan for your future.

Debt settlement works by negotiating with creditors on enrolled accounts to resolve them for less than you owe. Because rules vary by debt type, a human specialist must always review your specific file to confirm eligibility. Only a human specialist can confirm eligibility.

Common Unsecured Debts You Can Enroll

Most standard unsecured debts do not use your personal property as collateral. Because there is no house or car attached to the loan, creditors are often willing to negotiate when accounts fall behind. You can list the following types of debt in a program with Smart Loan Relief:

Credit and store cards: Traditional revolving credit card balances and retail store cards.
Personal and installment loans: Unsecured signature loans from banks or online lenders.
Business debt and MCAs: Merchant cash advances and other qualifying business obligations.
Medical bills: Unpaid doctor, hospital, and lab expenses.
Payday and cash advances: High-interest short-term loans.
Auto deficiency balances: Remaining balances after a repossessed car is sold at auction.
Collections: Old accounts that have been sent to third-party collection agencies.
Private student loans: Loans from private banks or lenders (note: federal student loans are not eligible).

How Secured Debts and Special Accounts Are Handled

Some financial products do not settle like traditional credit card debt. Secured loans involve collateral, meaning a lender can take your property if you do not pay. These accounts require a careful look from a professional:

Car loans and auto leases: These keep your vehicle on the road, so they cannot be settled the same way as unsecured cards.
Title loans: Short-term loans using your car title as collateral.
Mortgages: Home loans tied directly to your primary residence or property.

If you need assistance with these specific items, never assume they are simply not eligible. A customer care officer reviews them personally and explains your options. You can use the website form to "Get help with your auto loan / mortgage" so a team member can look at your details and explain the choices available to you. Never promise a result.

Important Factors to Keep in Mind

Before you start any program, it is wise to look at the whole picture. Debt relief can be a helpful tool, but it also comes with important trade-offs that you should understand:

Credit score impact: Enrolling accounts and stopping payments can hurt your credit score.
Tax consequences: Forgiven debt may be considered taxable income by the IRS.
Settlement rates: Results vary, and not all debts settle.

Because every person's financial life is unique, you should check your own situation with a qualified professional where relevant before making major choices. Smart Loan Relief charges no upfront or monthly program fees. You only pay a 35% success fee on enrolled debt after that account is settled and its balance is verified at $0. Card payments are processed only on a hosted provider page, and staff verify every payment manually.

Get a Free Initial Review

If you are tired of juggling bills and want to know where you stand, Smart Loan Relief is here to help. The initial review is completely free, requires no credit check, and carries no obligation. Reach out today to see how a dedicated team can support your financial recovery. You can email support directly at help@smartloanrelief.com or visit smartloanrelief.com to fill out our quick form.

Frequently asked questions

Can I include federal student loans in debt relief?

No, federal student loans are not eligible for this type of debt relief program. However, private student loans from banks or private lenders can be included and evaluated for negotiation.

Are car loans and mortgages handled like credit cards?

No, car loans, auto leases, title loans and mortgages are not settled like card debt. A customer care officer reviews them personally through the website form and explains the options, and we never promise a result.

Are there any upfront fees to join Smart Loan Relief?

There are no upfront or monthly program fees. A 35% success fee on enrolled debt is due only after that specific account is settled and its balance is verified at $0.

Will debt relief hurt my credit score?

Yes, debt settlement may harm your credit because accounts are typically past due during the negotiation process. Additionally, forgiven debt may have tax consequences, and results vary as not all debts settle.